On February 7, 2026, India's Congress party criticized the recent India-U.S. interim trade agreement, arguing that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's diplomatic efforts, including those at events like ‘Namaste Trump’, have yielded minimal tangible results. The Congress, through its leader Jairam Ramesh, pointed out that the joint statement from the U.S. and India lacks specific details. Criticism focused on India's commitment to not import oil from Russia and the potential reimposition of a 25% penalty by the U.S. if violated. Additionally, Congress expressed concern over India reducing import duties, possibly disadvantaging Indian farmers, while American farmers benefit. The trade deal is estimated to triple U.S. imports to India, shifting the trade dynamics and impacting India’s goods trade surplus with uncertainties around IT and service exports. Despite criticisms, the interim trade agreement is projected to reduce U.S. tariffs on Indian goods, facilitating a broader market for Indian exporters and fostering employment opportunities. Prime Minister Modi affirmed the agreement’s alignment with the ‘Make in India’ initiative, emphasizing its potential for economic and employment growth. This framework is intended to precede a comprehensive Bilateral Trade Agreement.